The Easiest Way to Spot Fake AirPods (With Almost 100% Accuracy)
Last week, I almost got scammed buying a pair of AirPods. There are so many convincing fakes on the market now that it’s getting harder and harder to tell what’s real. That’s when I decided to figure out the easiest way to spot fake AirPods with 100% accuracy.
After doing some digging, I realized something important: you don’t even need to test the earbuds themselves. The secret is in the case.
Why the Case Is the Key
Every AirPods case is built differently from the fakes, and there’s one specific detail that gives it away instantly. If you can spot it, you’ll know for sure if your AirPods are real or fake without needing to scan serial numbers or use Apple’s website.
Out of four AirPods cases I tested, only one was real and this trick worked every time.
The Foolproof Test
Here’s what I discovered:
Open the AirPods case and look at the plastic housing where the earbuds sit.
Gently pull on the housing with your fingers or nails.
Watch what happens:
If a gap forms between the housing and the case, your AirPods are fake.
If nothing moves at all, they’re probably real.
Why does this work? Apple uses extremely strong adhesive (basically industrial-strength glue) to secure the housing in their genuine AirPods cases. On OEM cases, it’s impossible to pull it loose. But with fakes, the housing is often poorly glued in, so it separates slightly when pulled.
Why This Method Works
I wanted a test that was instant and didn’t involve checking packaging, fonts, or serial numbers. This method focuses on the actual build quality, which is impossible for fakes to replicate perfectly. If the housing shifts or forms a gap, it’s game over, it’s fake.
It’s subtle, but once you’ve seen it in person, it’s hard to miss.
Final Thoughts
This simple pull test is hands down the easiest way to tell if AirPods are fake. If the housing moves, they’re knockoffs. If it doesn’t budge, you’re holding the real deal.
Honestly, with how many fake AirPods I’ve seen, I’m starting to think they should come with their own subscription plan.
See you in the next article.
